US4964632A - Compact multi-function weight-training exerciser - Google Patents

Compact multi-function weight-training exerciser Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US4964632A
US4964632A US07/403,404 US40340489A US4964632A US 4964632 A US4964632 A US 4964632A US 40340489 A US40340489 A US 40340489A US 4964632 A US4964632 A US 4964632A
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
frame
primary
pulley
lever
weight assembly
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Fee Related
Application number
US07/403,404
Inventor
Gary L. Rockwell
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
DP ACQUISITION Inc
SHAPE ACQUISTION Corp A CORP OF
Diversified Products Corp
Wells Fargo Capital Finance LLC
Original Assignee
Diversified Products Corp
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Assigned to DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION reassignment DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST. Assignors: ROCKWELL, GARY L.
Priority to US07/403,404 priority Critical patent/US4964632A/en
Application filed by Diversified Products Corp filed Critical Diversified Products Corp
Priority to US07/538,747 priority patent/US5080351A/en
Assigned to LENDER AND DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION reassignment LENDER AND DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION RELEASED BY SECURED PARTY (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO, THE
Assigned to WESTINGHOUSE CREDIT CORPORATION, A CORP OF DE reassignment WESTINGHOUSE CREDIT CORPORATION, A CORP OF DE SECURITY INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: SHAPE ACQUISITION CORP., A CORP OF DE
Assigned to LENDER AND DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION reassignment LENDER AND DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION RELEASED BY SECURED PARTY (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
Assigned to DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION, A CORP OF AL reassignment DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION, A CORP OF AL CHANGE OF NAME (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). FEBRUARY 26, 1990 Assignors: SHAPE ACQUISITION CORP, A CORP OF DE
Assigned to SHAPE ACQUISTION CORPORATION, A CORP OF DE reassignment SHAPE ACQUISTION CORPORATION, A CORP OF DE ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST. Assignors: DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION, A CORP OF AL
Priority to CA002023734A priority patent/CA2023734A1/en
Priority to EP19900309260 priority patent/EP0416783A3/en
Priority to AU62177/90A priority patent/AU641934B2/en
Publication of US4964632A publication Critical patent/US4964632A/en
Application granted granted Critical
Assigned to DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION reassignment DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION CHANGE OF NAME (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: DP ACQUISITION, INC.
Assigned to DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION reassignment DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: WESTINGHOUSE ELECTRIC CORPORATION
Assigned to DP ACQUISITION, INC. reassignment DP ACQUISITION, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION
Assigned to ITT COMMERCIAL FINANCE CORPORATION reassignment ITT COMMERCIAL FINANCE CORPORATION SECURITY INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION
Assigned to DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION reassignment DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: ITT COMMERCIAL FINANCE CORP., PROVIDENT BANK, THE
Assigned to FOOTHILL CAPITAL CORPORATION, AS AGENT reassignment FOOTHILL CAPITAL CORPORATION, AS AGENT SECURITY AGREEMENT Assignors: DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION, ROADMASTER CORPORATION
Assigned to FOOTHILL CAPITAL CORPORATION reassignment FOOTHILL CAPITAL CORPORATION ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: RDM HOLDINGS, INC.
Assigned to FOOTHILL CAPITAL CORPORATION reassignment FOOTHILL CAPITAL CORPORATION RELEASE Assignors: RDM HOLDINGS, INC.
Assigned to FF ACQUISITION CORP. reassignment FF ACQUISITION CORP. AMENDMENT TO CORRECT RECEIVING PARTY/CONVEYING PARTY Assignors: RDM HOLDINGS, INC.
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B21/00Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
    • A63B21/06User-manipulated weights
    • A63B21/062User-manipulated weights including guide for vertical or non-vertical weights or array of weights to move against gravity forces
    • A63B21/0626User-manipulated weights including guide for vertical or non-vertical weights or array of weights to move against gravity forces with substantially vertical guiding means
    • A63B21/0628User-manipulated weights including guide for vertical or non-vertical weights or array of weights to move against gravity forces with substantially vertical guiding means for vertical array of weights
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2208/00Characteristics or parameters related to the user or player
    • A63B2208/12Characteristics or parameters related to the user or player specially adapted for children

Definitions

  • the invention relates to physical exercising apparatus and, more particularly, to exercising apparatus which affords a variety of weight-training exercises.
  • At least one pivoted handlebar level having a handgrip at its free end is rotated by a user from a rest position against a resistive force afforded by a vertically guided weight assembly, a pneumatic cylinder, or other means that resists movement of the handlebar lever.
  • an actuating mechanism such as a pulley and cable arrangement, camming mechanisms, chain couplings or the like interconnect the handlebar lever and the resistance means to, for example, lift the weight assembly or actuate a piston within the pneumatic cylinder.
  • weight-training equipment of the aforementioned type is large and bulky, and is not well suited for domestic use, where space often is at a premium. Size and bulk are an acute problem with so-called "multi-station” equipment, which provides a plurality of stations surrounding one frame, each station usually designed for performing only a single type of exercise. More compact units tend to lack versatility, typically being of the "single station” type devoted to only one type of exercise.
  • weight-training equipment in such a way as to increase its versatility for performing many different types of exercises. This typically is done by reconfiguring various portions of the equipment so that exercise forces may be applied in many different directions to many parts of the user's body.
  • conversion of such equipment from one mode of operation to another typically is a rather complicated, cumbersome and time-consuming operation. And these multi-functional machines still tend to be rather sizable.
  • an object of the invention to provide a multi-function weight-training exerciser that is relatively compact in size and easy to convert from one mode of operation to another.
  • Another object of the invention is to provide such an exerciser having at least one pivoted handlebar lever wherein the rest position of the handlebar lever is easily and readily changed to facilitate different types of exercises with minimal changeover effort.
  • Another object of the invention is to provide such an exerciser, wherein a guided weight assembly provides the resistive force, having a pulley and cable actuating system that is substantially fully contained within the frame of the exerciser.
  • a physical exercising apparatus having a frame, a vertically guided liftable weight assembly on the frame, a seat and a backrest on the frame, at least one moveable handlebar lever pivoted at its upper end relative to the frame about a transverse axis located above the backrest and having a handgrip at its lower end that can be grasped and pushed forwardly by a user seated on the seat with his back against the backrest to perform a seated chest press exercise, and actuating means including a cable and pulley arrangement operatively interconnecting the handlebar lever and the weight assembly, whereby pivotal movement of the handlebar lever during exercise raises and lowers the weight assembly.
  • the actuating means comprises a lower lever behind the backrest pivoted at one end to the frame, an upwardly extending lift member behind the backrest pivoted at its lower end to the medial portion of the lower lever, motion converting means for converting forward pivotal movement of the handlebar lever to upward movement of the lift member, and vice versa, a primary upper pulley on the frame above the weight assembly, a primary lower pulley on the frame, and cable means interconnecting the weight assembly and the distal end of the lower lever, and trained around the primary upper and primary lower pulleys, for raising and lowering the weight assembly, whereby pivotal movement of the handlebar lever raises the lift member and the lower lever and pulls the cable means, thereby lifting the weight assembly.
  • the physical exercising apparatus includes a frame, a seat and a backrest on the frame, at least one moveable handlebar lever pivoted at its upper end relative to the frame about a transverse pivot axis located above the backrest and above the head of a user seated on the seat with his back against the backrest, the handlebar lever having a handgrip at its lower end that can be grasped and pushed forwardly by the user, to perform a seated chest press exercise, from a rest position adjacent the user's chest to an extended position with the user's arms extended, thereby rotating the handlebar lever about the pivot axis, a crank arm rotatable about the pivot axis in unison with the handlebar lever, and resistance means on the frame operatively connected to the crank arm for resisting rotation of the handlebar lever from its rest position.
  • Footrests are provided on the lower front portion of the frame below and in front of the seat on which the user can stand when performing alternate exercises in a standing position in front of the apparatus. Further, selector means is provided for adjustably locking the angular position of the handlebar lever relative to the crank arm whereby the handlebar lever can be selectively placed in various rest positions to facilitate various exercises.
  • the handlebar lever in one of the rest positions extends forwardly with the handgrip located in front of the seat and approximately at shoulder height of a user standing on the footrests to facilitate a standing or "military" press exercise.
  • the apparatus preferably has two handlebar levers symmetrically arranged with respect to the backrest, each of the handlebar levers having a handgrip at its lower end.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the apparatus according to the invention with one of the handlebar levers removed for the sake of simplicity;
  • FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the apparatus of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2, showing details of the upper end of the apparatus;
  • FIG. 4 is a partial side elevational view of the apparatus of FIGS. 1-3, showing details of the upper end of the apparatus;
  • FIG. 5 is a sectional view of the apparatus taken along line 5--5 in FIG. 2;
  • FIG. 6 is a detail view of the handlebar levers used with the apparatus of the invention.
  • exercising apparatus comprises a frame 100 formed of tubular steel having a central base member 102, an oblique front frame member 104, spaced vertical rear frame members 106, 108, a central vertical rear frame member 107, and a top frame member 110 consisting of spaced plates 112, 114 that are bolted together by bolts 116 and separated by spacers 118 (see FIG. 3).
  • Additional side plates 120, 122 are bolted to plates 112, 114, respectively, extend therebelow, and are welded to vertical member 107 and front frame member 104.
  • a cushioned seat 124 is bolted to a seat subframe comprising parallel members 126 that are joined together at their front ends by a socket assembly 128.
  • the rear ends of members 126 carry slotted pivot plates 130 that are pivoted to base member 102 at 132.
  • the height of seat 124 can be adjusted by selectively pinning members 126 to front frame member 104 through holes 127 in members 126 and selected holes 129 in member 104.
  • Socket 128 is adapted to receive and support a leg exercising accessory 134 comprising an arm 136 pivoted at 138 to mounting member 140, with padded lateral cushions 142 attached to arm 136 and padded cushions 144 attached to mounting member 140.
  • An eyebolt 146 is attached to the distal end of arm 136 and is adapted to be connected to a cable, as described below, which provides resistance to upward pivotal movement of arm 136.
  • Laterally extending footrests 148 are attached to the front end of base member 102, and help to laterally stabilize the apparatus. Lateral stability also is enhanced by laterally extending rear base members 147, which are attached to central base member 102.
  • a weight platform 151 (FIGS. 2 and 5) is attached at floor level to base member 147.
  • a backrest 150 is bolted to oblique front frame member 104.
  • Resistance means in the form of a liftable weight assembly 200 provides selective resistance to exercising movements of a user of the apparatus.
  • Weight assembly 200 comprises a stack of rectangular weights 202 each having a pair of square apertures 204 that receive vertical rear frame members 106, 108, which serve to guide vertical movement of weights 202.
  • a stop member 205 (FIG. 2) that is carried by weight platform 151.
  • Each weight 202 has a third central aperture 206 which receives a weight rod 208.
  • Weight rod 208 has a series of holes (not shown) that register with arcuate lateral recesses 210 (FIG. 2) on the underside of weights 202.
  • a weight selector rod 212 is insertable into a selected recess 210 through the aligned hole in weight rod 208, beneath a selected number of weights 202.
  • Weight rod 208 is attached at its upper end to a lift beam 214, which is cantilevered to the rear of a carriage 216.
  • carriage 216 comprises upper and lower C-shaped brackets 218, 220 that are interconnected by an elongated plate 224. Wheels 222 are journalled at the ends of brackets 218, 220 and ride within the outwardly facing tracks 223 of an extruded aluminum rail 225.
  • Rail 225 has a front web 227 that is bolted to frame member 107, and a rear channel 229.
  • a forwardly projecting flange 226 (FIG. 5) welded to the top of upper bracket 218 projects into rear channel 229 of rail 225.
  • Flange 226 has spaced holes 228, 230, each adapted to receive a lifting cable, as described below.
  • weight assembly 200 can be raised and lowered by one of two lifting cables 300, 400.
  • Primary lifting cable 300 is received in hole 228 in flange 226 and has at its end an enlarged cable stop 232 connected to an eyebolt 234.
  • secondary lifting cable 400 is received in hole 230 and has at its end an enlarged cable stop 236 connected to an eyebolt 238.
  • Eyebolts 234, 238 are interconnected by an elastic cord 240 that is trained around a bottom pulley 242.
  • flange 226 rides along the unused cable, with elastic cord 240 keeping the unused cable taught to prevent fouling with flange 226.
  • This dual-cable, elastic-cord concept is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,697,809, which is incorporated herein by reference.
  • primary lifting cable 300 extends upwardly from carriage 216 and is trained over a primary upper pulley 302, which is journalled on an axle 304 between plates 112 and 114.
  • Auxiliary upper pulleys 306, 308 similarly are journalled on axles 310, 312, respectively, between plates 112 and 114.
  • Primary lifting cable 300 extends downwardly from primary upper pulley 302 and then upwardly over auxiliary upper pulleys 306, 308, thereby forming a loop or bight portion 314 which engages a traveling pulley 316. Cable 300 emerges from between plates 112, 114 through a slotted cable guide 318 secured to plate 112.
  • Primary lifting cable 300 terminates in an enlarged cable stop 320 and an eye 322 to which other cables or handle type exercise devices can be attached. Cable stop 320 prevents retraction of primary lifting cable 300, thus anchoring the cable at that end so that downward movement of traveling pulley 316 during exercise will translate into upward movement of the opposite end of primary lifting cable 300 to lift the carriage and weight assembly.
  • traveling pulley 316 to raise weight assembly 200 is effected by an actuating mechanism that transmits rotating movement of handlebar levers 324, 326 (FIG. 6) to the traveling pulley.
  • Handlebar levers 324, 326 have handgrips 328 at their lower ends, and splined tips 330 at their upper ends that fit into splined axial sockets 332 in the ends of a pivot shaft 334, which is journalled about a transverse axis in plates 112, 114.
  • a spring-biasing mechanism 336 schematically illustrated in FIG.
  • a crank arm 336 is welded to pivot shaft 334 and rotates therewith.
  • a bell crank 338 is pivoted at 340 to plates 120, 122.
  • the upper leg 342 of bell crank 338 is connected to crank arm 336 by a double-sided link 334.
  • a lower lever 346 is pivoted at 348 to the rear of front frame member 104.
  • a lift member 350 is connected at its upper end to the lower leg 352 of bell crank 338, and at its lower end to the medial portion 354 of lower lever 346 by means of a clevis 356 and a bolt 358.
  • a primary lower pulley 360 is journalled on an axle 362 carried by a pair of brackets 364 (only one of which is shown in FIG. 2) which are attached to base member 102.
  • the distal end 366 of lower lever 346 is connected to traveling pulley 316 by means of an intermediate cable 368, a clevis 370 and a turnbuckle 372, intermediate cable 368 passing beneath primary lower pulley 360
  • axle 304 also supports a secondary upper pulley 402.
  • axle 362 (FIG. 2) supports a secondary lower pulley 404 which lies behind but is hidden by primary lower pulley 360, as viewed in FIG. 2.
  • a front pulley 406 is journalled between brackets 408 at the front end of base member 102.
  • Secondary lifting cable 400 extends upwardly from carriage 216, over secondary upper pulley 402, downwardly and under secondary lower pulley 404 and forwardly, emerging between brackets 408 beneath pulley 406.
  • An enlarged cable stop 410 at the front end of cable 400 engages brackets 408, within an eye 412 adapted to be connected to various exercising accessories, as described below.
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate handlebar lever 326 in one rest position, in preparation for a user to perform a seated chest press exercise with his back against backrest 150.
  • the other handlebar lever 324 would occupy a corresponding rest position at roughly chest height on the opposite of backrest 150, so that handgrips 328 comfortably can be gripped by the user and pushed forwardly to rotate the handlebar levers and, with them, pivot shaft 334 and crank arm 336.
  • Rotation of crank arm 336 pulls link 334 forwardly to rotate bell crank 338 clockwise as seen in FIGS. 2 and 4. This movement raises lift member 350, which causes lower lever 346 to pivot upwardly about its fulcrum 348, pulling intermediate cable 368.
  • traveling pulley 316 moves downwardly.
  • the cable stop 232 on the inner end of cable 300 exerts a lifting force on flanges 226 and causes carriage 216 along with the selected number of weights to rise.
  • the weight assembly no longer supported at rest on the frame, thus provides resistance to the user's arm movements exerted on the handgrips 328.
  • the resistance force is not linear, however, owing to the changes in effective lever arms that occur as crank arm 336, bell crank 338 and lower lever 346 change their angular positions relative to link 334 and lift member 350.
  • the resistive force desirably increases as the user's arms are extended, which tends to maximize the efficiency of the exercise being performed.
  • the size of the weight stack and the available resistance afforded thereby is efficiently matched to the effort applied by the user through the relatively long handlebar levers 324, 326, which themselves afford the user a rather high mechanical advantage.
  • the connection between lift member 350 and lower lever 346 is in the medial portion of the lower lever.
  • the use of a traveling pulley 316 further reduces the mechanical advantage. This arrangement therefore precludes the need for an unduly large number of weights to afford the proper resistance when using the handlebar levers.
  • the splined connection 330, 332 between handlebar levers 324, 326 and pivot shaft 334 allows the user to select any one of a number of possible rest positions for the handlebar levers. This is done simply by pulling each handlebar lever out of its associated socket 332 against the spring force, rotating the handlebar lever to the desired new rest position and reengaging the splines.
  • the handlebar levers can be arranged in a rest position corresponding to that illustrated in phantom in FIGS. 1 and 2 for performing a standing or "military" press. With this arrangement, the user stands facing the machine with his feet on footrests 148 and his hands grasping the handgrips 328 in their rests positions at roughly should height.
  • More or less vertical movement of the handgrips 328 causes rotation of the pivot shaft and results in elevation of the weight assembly 200.
  • Another possible rest position for handlebar levers 324, 326 is disposed with handgrips 328 somewhat to the rear of backrest 150, just within arm's reach of a user seated on seat 124 and facing backrest 150. Such a rest position would be suitable for performing a so-called chest pull or seated row type of exercise. Other rest positions for the handlebar levers are possible.
  • Primary lifting cable 300 can be used for performing alternate exercises independent of handlebar levers 324, 326. This is accomplished by attaching various forms of exercising accessories to the eye 322 at the end of cable 300. For example, a lat pulldown bar attached to eye 322 can be used to perform lat pulldown exercises with the user seated on seat 124 facing backrest 150. Other types of exercises using the primary lifting cable 300 may also be performed. For each of these, traveling pulley 316 remains immobile, and weight assembly 200 is lifted directly by the force applied to cable 300.
  • the secondary lifting cable 400 similarly may be used to perform additional exercises using accessories attached to eye 412.
  • eye 412 and eye 146 of the leg exercising assembly 134 may be interconnected to permit leg lifts to be performed with the user seated on seat 124 with his knees over padded cushions 144 and his ankles beneath padded cushions 142.
  • Leg curls may be performed with the user standing on one leg at a time with the front part of his lower thigh against the front of padded cushion 144 and the rear of the ankle exerting a lifting force against padded cushion 142.
  • Leg exercising assembly 134 may be removed and a curl bar attached to eye 412 so that wrist curls or arm curls can be performed with the user seated on seat 124.
  • Many other types of exercises can be performed utilizing secondary lifting cable 400.
  • crank arm in the form of a cam with a peripheral chain or cable passing over a gear or pulley and downwardly to lower lever 346.
  • crank arm as used in the claims thus is to be construed broadly as a torque transmitting element that rotates with, or could be a part of, the handlebar levers.
  • the handlebar levers themselves could be joined together at the top and the entire handlebar assembly releasably indexed with respect to the pivot shaft.
  • Other modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Abstract

A compact multi-function weight-training exerciser having at least one pivoted handlebar lever efficiently matches liftable weight-training resistance to the exercising forces applied by the user. The handlebar levers can be simply and easily reconfigured in a variety of rest positions to facilitate a variety of exercises. Cable and linkages are efficiently laid out and housed within the frame of the apparatus.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to physical exercising apparatus and, more particularly, to exercising apparatus which affords a variety of weight-training exercises.
Many configurations of weight-training equipment are known in the exercise equipment art. In many of these, at least one pivoted handlebar level having a handgrip at its free end is rotated by a user from a rest position against a resistive force afforded by a vertically guided weight assembly, a pneumatic cylinder, or other means that resists movement of the handlebar lever. Typically an actuating mechanism, such as a pulley and cable arrangement, camming mechanisms, chain couplings or the like interconnect the handlebar lever and the resistance means to, for example, lift the weight assembly or actuate a piston within the pneumatic cylinder.
Most weight-training equipment of the aforementioned type is large and bulky, and is not well suited for domestic use, where space often is at a premium. Size and bulk are an acute problem with so-called "multi-station" equipment, which provides a plurality of stations surrounding one frame, each station usually designed for performing only a single type of exercise. More compact units tend to lack versatility, typically being of the "single station" type devoted to only one type of exercise.
It has proven desirable, especially for domestic use, to configure weight-training equipment in such a way as to increase its versatility for performing many different types of exercises. This typically is done by reconfiguring various portions of the equipment so that exercise forces may be applied in many different directions to many parts of the user's body. However, conversion of such equipment from one mode of operation to another typically is a rather complicated, cumbersome and time-consuming operation. And these multi-functional machines still tend to be rather sizable.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is, therefore, an object of the invention to provide a multi-function weight-training exerciser that is relatively compact in size and easy to convert from one mode of operation to another.
Another object of the invention is to provide such an exerciser having at least one pivoted handlebar lever wherein the rest position of the handlebar lever is easily and readily changed to facilitate different types of exercises with minimal changeover effort.
Another object of the invention is to provide such an exerciser, wherein a guided weight assembly provides the resistive force, having a pulley and cable actuating system that is substantially fully contained within the frame of the exerciser.
These and other objects of the invention are accomplished by providing a physical exercising apparatus having a frame, a vertically guided liftable weight assembly on the frame, a seat and a backrest on the frame, at least one moveable handlebar lever pivoted at its upper end relative to the frame about a transverse axis located above the backrest and having a handgrip at its lower end that can be grasped and pushed forwardly by a user seated on the seat with his back against the backrest to perform a seated chest press exercise, and actuating means including a cable and pulley arrangement operatively interconnecting the handlebar lever and the weight assembly, whereby pivotal movement of the handlebar lever during exercise raises and lowers the weight assembly. The actuating means comprises a lower lever behind the backrest pivoted at one end to the frame, an upwardly extending lift member behind the backrest pivoted at its lower end to the medial portion of the lower lever, motion converting means for converting forward pivotal movement of the handlebar lever to upward movement of the lift member, and vice versa, a primary upper pulley on the frame above the weight assembly, a primary lower pulley on the frame, and cable means interconnecting the weight assembly and the distal end of the lower lever, and trained around the primary upper and primary lower pulleys, for raising and lowering the weight assembly, whereby pivotal movement of the handlebar lever raises the lift member and the lower lever and pulls the cable means, thereby lifting the weight assembly.
In another aspect of the invention, the physical exercising apparatus includes a frame, a seat and a backrest on the frame, at least one moveable handlebar lever pivoted at its upper end relative to the frame about a transverse pivot axis located above the backrest and above the head of a user seated on the seat with his back against the backrest, the handlebar lever having a handgrip at its lower end that can be grasped and pushed forwardly by the user, to perform a seated chest press exercise, from a rest position adjacent the user's chest to an extended position with the user's arms extended, thereby rotating the handlebar lever about the pivot axis, a crank arm rotatable about the pivot axis in unison with the handlebar lever, and resistance means on the frame operatively connected to the crank arm for resisting rotation of the handlebar lever from its rest position. Footrests are provided on the lower front portion of the frame below and in front of the seat on which the user can stand when performing alternate exercises in a standing position in front of the apparatus. Further, selector means is provided for adjustably locking the angular position of the handlebar lever relative to the crank arm whereby the handlebar lever can be selectively placed in various rest positions to facilitate various exercises. The handlebar lever in one of the rest positions extends forwardly with the handgrip located in front of the seat and approximately at shoulder height of a user standing on the footrests to facilitate a standing or "military" press exercise. The apparatus preferably has two handlebar levers symmetrically arranged with respect to the backrest, each of the handlebar levers having a handgrip at its lower end.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention is diagrammatically illustrated, by way of example, in the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the apparatus according to the invention with one of the handlebar levers removed for the sake of simplicity;
FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the apparatus of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2, showing details of the upper end of the apparatus;
FIG. 4 is a partial side elevational view of the apparatus of FIGS. 1-3, showing details of the upper end of the apparatus;
FIG. 5 is a sectional view of the apparatus taken along line 5--5 in FIG. 2; and
FIG. 6 is a detail view of the handlebar levers used with the apparatus of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, exercising apparatus according to the invention comprises a frame 100 formed of tubular steel having a central base member 102, an oblique front frame member 104, spaced vertical rear frame members 106, 108, a central vertical rear frame member 107, and a top frame member 110 consisting of spaced plates 112, 114 that are bolted together by bolts 116 and separated by spacers 118 (see FIG. 3). Additional side plates 120, 122 are bolted to plates 112, 114, respectively, extend therebelow, and are welded to vertical member 107 and front frame member 104. A cushioned seat 124 is bolted to a seat subframe comprising parallel members 126 that are joined together at their front ends by a socket assembly 128. The rear ends of members 126 carry slotted pivot plates 130 that are pivoted to base member 102 at 132. The height of seat 124 can be adjusted by selectively pinning members 126 to front frame member 104 through holes 127 in members 126 and selected holes 129 in member 104. Socket 128 is adapted to receive and support a leg exercising accessory 134 comprising an arm 136 pivoted at 138 to mounting member 140, with padded lateral cushions 142 attached to arm 136 and padded cushions 144 attached to mounting member 140. An eyebolt 146 is attached to the distal end of arm 136 and is adapted to be connected to a cable, as described below, which provides resistance to upward pivotal movement of arm 136. Laterally extending footrests 148 are attached to the front end of base member 102, and help to laterally stabilize the apparatus. Lateral stability also is enhanced by laterally extending rear base members 147, which are attached to central base member 102. A weight platform 151 (FIGS. 2 and 5) is attached at floor level to base member 147. A backrest 150 is bolted to oblique front frame member 104.
Resistance means in the form of a liftable weight assembly 200 provides selective resistance to exercising movements of a user of the apparatus. Weight assembly 200 comprises a stack of rectangular weights 202 each having a pair of square apertures 204 that receive vertical rear frame members 106, 108, which serve to guide vertical movement of weights 202. When at rest weights 202 are supported on a stop member 205 (FIG. 2) that is carried by weight platform 151. Each weight 202 has a third central aperture 206 which receives a weight rod 208. Weight rod 208 has a series of holes (not shown) that register with arcuate lateral recesses 210 (FIG. 2) on the underside of weights 202. A weight selector rod 212 is insertable into a selected recess 210 through the aligned hole in weight rod 208, beneath a selected number of weights 202. Weight rod 208 is attached at its upper end to a lift beam 214, which is cantilevered to the rear of a carriage 216. Referring to FIGS. 2-5, carriage 216 comprises upper and lower C- shaped brackets 218, 220 that are interconnected by an elongated plate 224. Wheels 222 are journalled at the ends of brackets 218, 220 and ride within the outwardly facing tracks 223 of an extruded aluminum rail 225. Rail 225 has a front web 227 that is bolted to frame member 107, and a rear channel 229. A forwardly projecting flange 226 (FIG. 5) welded to the top of upper bracket 218 projects into rear channel 229 of rail 225. Flange 226 has spaced holes 228, 230, each adapted to receive a lifting cable, as described below.
Referring to FIG. 5, weight assembly 200 can be raised and lowered by one of two lifting cables 300, 400. Primary lifting cable 300 is received in hole 228 in flange 226 and has at its end an enlarged cable stop 232 connected to an eyebolt 234. Similarly, secondary lifting cable 400 is received in hole 230 and has at its end an enlarged cable stop 236 connected to an eyebolt 238. Eyebolts 234, 238 are interconnected by an elastic cord 240 that is trained around a bottom pulley 242. In operation, when either cable 300, 400 lifts flange 226 and, with it, carriage 216 and a selected number of weights, flange 226 rides along the unused cable, with elastic cord 240 keeping the unused cable taught to prevent fouling with flange 226. This dual-cable, elastic-cord concept is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,697,809, which is incorporated herein by reference.
Referring to FIGS. 2, 3 and 4, primary lifting cable 300 extends upwardly from carriage 216 and is trained over a primary upper pulley 302, which is journalled on an axle 304 between plates 112 and 114. Auxiliary upper pulleys 306, 308 similarly are journalled on axles 310, 312, respectively, between plates 112 and 114. Primary lifting cable 300 extends downwardly from primary upper pulley 302 and then upwardly over auxiliary upper pulleys 306, 308, thereby forming a loop or bight portion 314 which engages a traveling pulley 316. Cable 300 emerges from between plates 112, 114 through a slotted cable guide 318 secured to plate 112. Primary lifting cable 300 terminates in an enlarged cable stop 320 and an eye 322 to which other cables or handle type exercise devices can be attached. Cable stop 320 prevents retraction of primary lifting cable 300, thus anchoring the cable at that end so that downward movement of traveling pulley 316 during exercise will translate into upward movement of the opposite end of primary lifting cable 300 to lift the carriage and weight assembly.
Downward movement of traveling pulley 316 to raise weight assembly 200 is effected by an actuating mechanism that transmits rotating movement of handlebar levers 324, 326 (FIG. 6) to the traveling pulley. Handlebar levers 324, 326 have handgrips 328 at their lower ends, and splined tips 330 at their upper ends that fit into splined axial sockets 332 in the ends of a pivot shaft 334, which is journalled about a transverse axis in plates 112, 114. A spring-biasing mechanism 336, schematically illustrated in FIG. 6, urges the splined tips 330 of handlebar levers 324, 326 into engagement with axial sockets 332, but permits the splined tips to be withdrawn sufficiently to reposition the handlebar levers to different rest positions, as described more fully below.
A crank arm 336 is welded to pivot shaft 334 and rotates therewith. A bell crank 338 is pivoted at 340 to plates 120, 122. The upper leg 342 of bell crank 338 is connected to crank arm 336 by a double-sided link 334. A lower lever 346 is pivoted at 348 to the rear of front frame member 104. A lift member 350 is connected at its upper end to the lower leg 352 of bell crank 338, and at its lower end to the medial portion 354 of lower lever 346 by means of a clevis 356 and a bolt 358. A primary lower pulley 360 is journalled on an axle 362 carried by a pair of brackets 364 (only one of which is shown in FIG. 2) which are attached to base member 102. The distal end 366 of lower lever 346 is connected to traveling pulley 316 by means of an intermediate cable 368, a clevis 370 and a turnbuckle 372, intermediate cable 368 passing beneath primary lower pulley 360.
Referring to FIG. 3, axle 304 also supports a secondary upper pulley 402. Similarly, axle 362 (FIG. 2) supports a secondary lower pulley 404 which lies behind but is hidden by primary lower pulley 360, as viewed in FIG. 2. A front pulley 406 is journalled between brackets 408 at the front end of base member 102. Secondary lifting cable 400 extends upwardly from carriage 216, over secondary upper pulley 402, downwardly and under secondary lower pulley 404 and forwardly, emerging between brackets 408 beneath pulley 406. An enlarged cable stop 410 at the front end of cable 400 engages brackets 408, within an eye 412 adapted to be connected to various exercising accessories, as described below.
FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate handlebar lever 326 in one rest position, in preparation for a user to perform a seated chest press exercise with his back against backrest 150. The other handlebar lever 324 would occupy a corresponding rest position at roughly chest height on the opposite of backrest 150, so that handgrips 328 comfortably can be gripped by the user and pushed forwardly to rotate the handlebar levers and, with them, pivot shaft 334 and crank arm 336. Rotation of crank arm 336 pulls link 334 forwardly to rotate bell crank 338 clockwise as seen in FIGS. 2 and 4. This movement raises lift member 350, which causes lower lever 346 to pivot upwardly about its fulcrum 348, pulling intermediate cable 368. As cable 368 is pulled, traveling pulley 316 moves downwardly. With the outer end of primary lifting cable 300 anchored by cable stop 320, the cable stop 232 on the inner end of cable 300 exerts a lifting force on flanges 226 and causes carriage 216 along with the selected number of weights to rise. The weight assembly, no longer supported at rest on the frame, thus provides resistance to the user's arm movements exerted on the handgrips 328. The resistance force is not linear, however, owing to the changes in effective lever arms that occur as crank arm 336, bell crank 338 and lower lever 346 change their angular positions relative to link 334 and lift member 350. Specifically, the resistive force desirably increases as the user's arms are extended, which tends to maximize the efficiency of the exercise being performed. Further, the size of the weight stack and the available resistance afforded thereby is efficiently matched to the effort applied by the user through the relatively long handlebar levers 324, 326, which themselves afford the user a rather high mechanical advantage. To counteract this advantage, the connection between lift member 350 and lower lever 346 is in the medial portion of the lower lever. In addition, the use of a traveling pulley 316 further reduces the mechanical advantage. This arrangement therefore precludes the need for an unduly large number of weights to afford the proper resistance when using the handlebar levers.
The splined connection 330, 332 between handlebar levers 324, 326 and pivot shaft 334 allows the user to select any one of a number of possible rest positions for the handlebar levers. This is done simply by pulling each handlebar lever out of its associated socket 332 against the spring force, rotating the handlebar lever to the desired new rest position and reengaging the splines. Thus, for example, the handlebar levers can be arranged in a rest position corresponding to that illustrated in phantom in FIGS. 1 and 2 for performing a standing or "military" press. With this arrangement, the user stands facing the machine with his feet on footrests 148 and his hands grasping the handgrips 328 in their rests positions at roughly should height. More or less vertical movement of the handgrips 328 causes rotation of the pivot shaft and results in elevation of the weight assembly 200. Another possible rest position for handlebar levers 324, 326 is disposed with handgrips 328 somewhat to the rear of backrest 150, just within arm's reach of a user seated on seat 124 and facing backrest 150. Such a rest position would be suitable for performing a so-called chest pull or seated row type of exercise. Other rest positions for the handlebar levers are possible.
Primary lifting cable 300 can be used for performing altenate exercises independent of handlebar levers 324, 326. This is accomplished by attaching various forms of exercising accessories to the eye 322 at the end of cable 300. For example, a lat pulldown bar attached to eye 322 can be used to perform lat pulldown exercises with the user seated on seat 124 facing backrest 150. Other types of exercises using the primary lifting cable 300 may also be performed. For each of these, traveling pulley 316 remains immobile, and weight assembly 200 is lifted directly by the force applied to cable 300.
The secondary lifting cable 400 similarly may be used to perform additional exercises using accessories attached to eye 412. For example, eye 412 and eye 146 of the leg exercising assembly 134 may be interconnected to permit leg lifts to be performed with the user seated on seat 124 with his knees over padded cushions 144 and his ankles beneath padded cushions 142. Leg curls may be performed with the user standing on one leg at a time with the front part of his lower thigh against the front of padded cushion 144 and the rear of the ankle exerting a lifting force against padded cushion 142. Leg exercising assembly 134 may be removed and a curl bar attached to eye 412 so that wrist curls or arm curls can be performed with the user seated on seat 124. Many other types of exercises can be performed utilizing secondary lifting cable 400.
It is readily apparent that the pulleys, cables and various linkages are efficiently laid out and substantially completely housed within the confines of the frame. Side covers (not shown) can be attached by bolts or the like to the frame to cover the open space bounded by rear frame member 107, base member 102, front frame member 104 and top frame member 110, thereby concealing the working parts from the probing fingers of small children and presenting a clean look that is all but lacking in many cable-operated weight-training devices of the prior art.
It is to be understood that the above described apparatus is but one example of the invention. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill that modifications and changes may be made in the structure of the invention without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention, which is defined by the appended claims. For example, any suitable equivalent mechanism could be used for transmitting rotating movement and torque of pivot shaft 334 to lower lever 346, e.g., a crank arm in the form of a cam with a peripheral chain or cable passing over a gear or pulley and downwardly to lower lever 346. The term "crank arm" as used in the claims thus is to be construed broadly as a torque transmitting element that rotates with, or could be a part of, the handlebar levers. Instead of using the splined connections 330, 332, the handlebar levers themselves could be joined together at the top and the entire handlebar assembly releasably indexed with respect to the pivot shaft. Other modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims (11)

I claim:
1. In a physical exercising apparatus having a frame; a vertically guided liftable weight assembly on said frame; a seat and a backrest on said frame; at least one moveable handlebar lever pivoted at its upper end relative to said frame about a transverse axis located above said backrest and having a handgrip at its lower end that can be grasped and pushed forwardly by a user seated on the seat with his back against the backrest to perform a seated chest press exercise; and actuating means including a cable and pulley arrangement operatively interconnecting said handlebar lever and said weight assembly whereby pivotal movement of said handlebar lever during exercise raises and lowers said weight assembly, the improvement wherein said actuating means comprises:
a lower lever behind said backrest pivoted at one end to said frame;
an upwardly extending lift member behind said backrest pivoted at its lower end to the medial portion of said lower lever;
motion converting means for converting forward pivotal movement of said handlebar lever to upward movement of said lift member, and vice versa;
a primary upper pulley on said frame above said weight assembly;
a primary lower pulley on said frame; and
cable means interconnecting said weight assembly and the distal end of said lower lever, and trained around said primary upper and primary lower pulleys, for raising and lowering said weight assembly, whereby pivotal movement of said handlebar lever raises said lift member and said lower lever and pulls said cable means, thereby lifting said weight assembly.
2. Physical exercising apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said cable means comprises:
a primary lifting cable attached at one end to said weight assembly, trained over said primary upper pulley and anchored at its other end to said frame, said primary lifting cable hanging with a bight portion between said primary upper pulley and its anchored end;
a traveling pulley engaging the bight portion of said primary lifting cable; and
an intermediate cable trained under said primary lower pulley and interconnecting said traveling pulley and the distal end of said lower lever.
3. Physical exercising apparatus according to claim 2 wherein the anchored end of said primary lifting cable is located above said backrest, further comprising:
at least one auxiliary upper pulley on said frame in front of said primary upper pulley, said primary lifting cable between its bight portion and its anchored end trained over said auxiliary upper pulley;
stop means at the anchored end of said primary lifting cable limiting retraction but permitting extension of the anchored end thereof; and
primary coupling means on the anchored end of said primary lifting cable for attaching auxiliary exercise equipment, whereby additional exercises can be performed by pulling on the anchored end of said primary lifting cable to directly lift said weight assembly.
4. Physical exercising apparatus according to claim 3 further comprising:
a secondary upper pulley on said frame above said weight assembly;
a secondary lower pulley on said frame;
a secondary lifting cable attached at one end to said weight assembly, trained over said secondary upper pulley and around said secondary lower pulley and emerging at the lower front of the apparatus; and
secondary coupling means at the distal end of said secondary lifting cable for attaching auxiliary exercise equipment, whereby additional exercises can be performed by pulling on the distal end of said secondary lifting cable to directly lift said weight assembly.
5. Physical exercising apparatus according to claim 4 wherein said primary upper pulley and said secondary upper pulley are mounted on a common axle, and said primary lower pulley and said secondary lower pulley are mounted on a common axle.
6. Physical exercising apparatus according to claim 5 wherein said motion converting means comprises:
a crank arm pivotable in unison with said handlebar lever;
a bell crank pivoted to said frame behind said crank arm, said lift member pivoted to the lower leg of said bell crank; and
a link interconnecting said crank arm and the upper leg of said bell crank, whereby pivotal movement of said handlebar lever rotates said crank arm, pulls said link, rotates said bell crank and raises said lift member.
7. Physical exercising apparatus according to claim 2 wherein said motion converting means comprises:
a crank arm pivotable in unison with said handlebar lever;
a bell crank pivoted to said frame behind said crank arm, said lift member pivoted to the lower leg of said bell crank; and
a link interconnecting said crank arm and the upper leg of said bell crank, whereby pivotal movement of said handlebar lever rotates said crank arm, pulls said link, rotates said bell crank and raises said lift member.
8. Physical exercising apparatus according to claim 7 wherein said frame comprises:
a base member;
a vertical rear frame member attached to said base member adjacent which said weight assembly moves;
an oblique front frame member attached to said base member and supporting said backrest; and
a top frame member interconnecting said front and rear frame members and supporting said upper pulleys; said bell crank, said lift member, said lower lever, all of said pulleys and substantially all but the exposed end portions of said cables all lying within the confines of said frame members.
9. Physical exercising apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said motion converting means comprises:
a crank arm pivotable in unison with said handlebar lever;
a bell crank pivoted to said frame behind said crank arm, said lift member pivoted to the lower leg of said bell crank; and
a link interconnecting said crank arm and the upper leg of said bell crank, whereby pivotal movement of said handlebar lever rotates said crank arm, pulls said link, rotates said bell crank and raises said lift member.
10. Physical exercising apparatus according to claim 9 wherein said frame comprises:
a base member;
a vertical rear frame member attached to said base member adjacent which said weight assembly moves;
an oblique front frame member attached to said base member and supporting said backrest; and
a top frame member interconnecting said front and rear frame members and supporting said upper pulleys; said bell crank, said lift member, said lower lever, all of said pulleys and substantially all but the exposed end portions of said cables all lying within the confines of said frame members.
11. Physical exercising apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said frame comprises:
a base member;
a vertical rear frame member attached to said base member adjacent which said weight assembly moves;
an oblique front frame member attached to said base member and supporting said backrest; and
a top frame member interconnecting said front and rear frame members and supporting said primary upper pulley; said lower lever, said lift member, said primary upper pulley, said primary lower pulley and said cable means all lying substantially within the confines of said frame members.
US07/403,404 1989-09-06 1989-09-06 Compact multi-function weight-training exerciser Expired - Fee Related US4964632A (en)

Priority Applications (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US07/403,404 US4964632A (en) 1989-09-06 1989-09-06 Compact multi-function weight-training exerciser
US07/538,747 US5080351A (en) 1989-09-06 1990-06-15 Compact multi-function weight-training exerciser
CA002023734A CA2023734A1 (en) 1989-09-06 1990-08-21 Multi-function weight-training exerciser
EP19900309260 EP0416783A3 (en) 1989-09-06 1990-08-23 Compact multi-function weight training exerciser
AU62177/90A AU641934B2 (en) 1989-09-06 1990-09-05 Compact multi-function weight-training exerciser

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US07/403,404 US4964632A (en) 1989-09-06 1989-09-06 Compact multi-function weight-training exerciser

Related Child Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US07/538,747 Division US5080351A (en) 1989-09-06 1990-06-15 Compact multi-function weight-training exerciser

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US4964632A true US4964632A (en) 1990-10-23

Family

ID=23595640

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US07/403,404 Expired - Fee Related US4964632A (en) 1989-09-06 1989-09-06 Compact multi-function weight-training exerciser

Country Status (4)

Country Link
US (1) US4964632A (en)
EP (1) EP0416783A3 (en)
AU (1) AU641934B2 (en)
CA (1) CA2023734A1 (en)

Cited By (50)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5085430A (en) * 1991-02-20 1992-02-04 Pacific Fitness Corporation Multiple station exercise apparatus
US5087031A (en) * 1991-04-08 1992-02-11 Hoff Ross W Arm exerciser
US5120289A (en) * 1991-09-17 1992-06-09 James Yu Convertible gymnastic apparatus for doing push-lift movement or chest building movement
US5181896A (en) * 1991-06-25 1993-01-26 The Hammer Corporation Incline press exercise machine
US5236406A (en) * 1991-02-20 1993-08-17 Fitness Warehouse, Inc. Constant tension exercise device
US5263914A (en) * 1990-04-04 1993-11-23 Loredan Biomedical, Inc. Weight machine
US5290214A (en) * 1993-04-30 1994-03-01 Chen Tsung Yu Exerciser
US5304107A (en) * 1992-09-15 1994-04-19 Jones Arthur A Exercise machine
US5342270A (en) * 1992-09-15 1994-08-30 Jones Arthur A Exercise machine for upper torso
US5352171A (en) * 1994-01-31 1994-10-04 Kuo-Chung Shieh Exercise machine making use of body weight of exerciser as load weight thereof
US5419751A (en) * 1993-10-28 1995-05-30 Stamina Products, Inc. Multi-function exercise apparatus
US5447480A (en) * 1993-03-19 1995-09-05 Fulks; Kent Weight lifting machine
US5484365A (en) * 1992-07-07 1996-01-16 Medx Corporation Leg press exercise machine
US5527245A (en) * 1994-02-03 1996-06-18 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Aerobic and anaerobic exercise machine
US5549530A (en) * 1993-03-19 1996-08-27 Kent Fulks Compact weight lifting machine
US5554085A (en) * 1994-02-03 1996-09-10 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Weight-training machine
US5580341A (en) * 1995-03-01 1996-12-03 Lumex, Inc. Shoulder press exercise machine and method of exercising
US5667463A (en) * 1992-07-07 1997-09-16 Jones; Arthur A. Exercise machines and methods
US5733229A (en) * 1995-02-01 1998-03-31 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Exercise apparatus using body weight resistance
US5769757A (en) * 1996-06-21 1998-06-23 Fulks; Kent Method and apparatus for exercise with forced pronation or supination
US5785635A (en) * 1993-03-05 1998-07-28 Stamina Products, Inc. Multiple function exercise apparatus
US5807219A (en) * 1995-12-28 1998-09-15 Webber; Randall T. Exercise apparatus adaptable for handicapped and non-handicapped users
US5980434A (en) * 1995-12-28 1999-11-09 Webber; Randall T. Exercise apparatus with adjustable roller pads
USRE37648E1 (en) * 1993-03-19 2002-04-09 Kent Fulks Compact weight lifting machine
DE102016100434B4 (en) 2015-01-15 2019-01-03 Harald Huber fitness device
US10188890B2 (en) 2013-12-26 2019-01-29 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Magnetic resistance mechanism in a cable machine
US10252109B2 (en) 2016-05-13 2019-04-09 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Weight platform treadmill
US10258828B2 (en) 2015-01-16 2019-04-16 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Controls for an exercise device
US10272317B2 (en) 2016-03-18 2019-04-30 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Lighted pace feature in a treadmill
US10279212B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2019-05-07 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Strength training apparatus with flywheel and related methods
US10293211B2 (en) 2016-03-18 2019-05-21 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Coordinated weight selection
US10343017B2 (en) 2016-11-01 2019-07-09 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Distance sensor for console positioning
US10376736B2 (en) 2016-10-12 2019-08-13 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Cooling an exercise device during a dive motor runway condition
US10426989B2 (en) 2014-06-09 2019-10-01 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Cable system incorporated into a treadmill
US10433612B2 (en) 2014-03-10 2019-10-08 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Pressure sensor to quantify work
US10441840B2 (en) 2016-03-18 2019-10-15 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Collapsible strength exercise machine
US10441844B2 (en) 2016-07-01 2019-10-15 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Cooling systems and methods for exercise equipment
US10449416B2 (en) 2015-08-26 2019-10-22 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Strength exercise mechanisms
US10471299B2 (en) 2016-07-01 2019-11-12 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Systems and methods for cooling internal exercise equipment components
US10493349B2 (en) 2016-03-18 2019-12-03 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Display on exercise device
US10500473B2 (en) 2016-10-10 2019-12-10 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Console positioning
US10543395B2 (en) 2016-12-05 2020-01-28 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Offsetting treadmill deck weight during operation
US10561894B2 (en) 2016-03-18 2020-02-18 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Treadmill with removable supports
US10625137B2 (en) 2016-03-18 2020-04-21 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Coordinated displays in an exercise device
US10661114B2 (en) 2016-11-01 2020-05-26 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Body weight lift mechanism on treadmill
US10729965B2 (en) 2017-12-22 2020-08-04 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Audible belt guide in a treadmill
US20200406086A1 (en) * 2018-02-28 2020-12-31 Pablo Gonzalez Perez Machine for sports training
US10940360B2 (en) 2015-08-26 2021-03-09 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Strength exercise mechanisms
US10953305B2 (en) 2015-08-26 2021-03-23 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Strength exercise mechanisms
US11451108B2 (en) 2017-08-16 2022-09-20 Ifit Inc. Systems and methods for axial impact resistance in electric motors

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
AT397204B (en) * 1991-03-04 1994-02-25 Kovarik Josef Transmission for a keep-fit machine

Citations (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US931699A (en) * 1909-02-02 1909-08-17 Fred Medart Mfg Company Exercising apparatus.
US3734495A (en) * 1971-10-26 1973-05-22 Whittaker Corp A seat and leg operated load lifting device
US3917262A (en) * 1974-01-31 1975-11-04 Larry A Salkeld Leg exercising apparatus
US4149714A (en) * 1977-07-28 1979-04-17 Lambert Jr Lloyd J Seated weight lifting leg press exercise machine
US4169589A (en) * 1977-09-28 1979-10-02 Mcarthur James A Leg exercising apparatus
US4226414A (en) * 1978-04-20 1980-10-07 Matthew Coffaro Weight exercise device
US4336934A (en) * 1981-02-27 1982-06-29 Corbin Gentry, Inc. Rowing exercise machine
USRE31170E (en) * 1973-06-29 1983-03-08 Variable resistance exercising device
US4505475A (en) * 1983-05-27 1985-03-19 Brad Olschansky Exercise system
GB2158362A (en) * 1984-05-09 1985-11-13 Marcy Gymnasium Equip Exercise apparatus
US4828254A (en) * 1988-05-04 1989-05-09 Henry Maag Crank and slider/four-bar variable resistance carriage-type leg press machine
US4890830A (en) * 1988-06-07 1990-01-02 Bernhard Kern Body fitness training apparatus to exercise muscles

Family Cites Families (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4606540A (en) * 1984-08-15 1986-08-19 Chin Sen Chiu Single column gym set
US4643420A (en) * 1985-01-07 1987-02-17 Riley Robert Q Floor-mounted exercise machine
NL8600846A (en) * 1986-04-02 1987-11-02 Jaap Albert Johan Hesselink EXERCISER, COMPRISING A WORK UNIT AND A WEIGHT UNIT.
CA1273032A (en) * 1986-08-11 1990-08-21 Thomas Peter Drake Exercise machine
US4809972A (en) * 1987-09-16 1989-03-07 R. A. Rasmussen Exercise machine with multiple exercise stations

Patent Citations (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US931699A (en) * 1909-02-02 1909-08-17 Fred Medart Mfg Company Exercising apparatus.
US3734495A (en) * 1971-10-26 1973-05-22 Whittaker Corp A seat and leg operated load lifting device
USRE31170E (en) * 1973-06-29 1983-03-08 Variable resistance exercising device
US3917262A (en) * 1974-01-31 1975-11-04 Larry A Salkeld Leg exercising apparatus
US4149714A (en) * 1977-07-28 1979-04-17 Lambert Jr Lloyd J Seated weight lifting leg press exercise machine
US4169589A (en) * 1977-09-28 1979-10-02 Mcarthur James A Leg exercising apparatus
US4226414A (en) * 1978-04-20 1980-10-07 Matthew Coffaro Weight exercise device
US4336934A (en) * 1981-02-27 1982-06-29 Corbin Gentry, Inc. Rowing exercise machine
US4505475A (en) * 1983-05-27 1985-03-19 Brad Olschansky Exercise system
GB2158362A (en) * 1984-05-09 1985-11-13 Marcy Gymnasium Equip Exercise apparatus
US4828254A (en) * 1988-05-04 1989-05-09 Henry Maag Crank and slider/four-bar variable resistance carriage-type leg press machine
US4890830A (en) * 1988-06-07 1990-01-02 Bernhard Kern Body fitness training apparatus to exercise muscles

Non-Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
Advertisement for the "Pulldown Latissimus Machine" In Recreation, Sports and Leisure, p. 14, 9/1982.
Advertisement for the Pulldown Latissimus Machine In Recreation, Sports and Leisure, p. 14, 9/1982. *
DP Chairman Fitness System, 1987 Catalog of Diversified Products Corporation, pp. 12 13. *
DP Chairman Fitness System, 1987 Catalog of Diversified Products Corporation, pp. 12-13.

Cited By (59)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5263914A (en) * 1990-04-04 1993-11-23 Loredan Biomedical, Inc. Weight machine
US5085430A (en) * 1991-02-20 1992-02-04 Pacific Fitness Corporation Multiple station exercise apparatus
US5938574A (en) * 1991-02-20 1999-08-17 Webber; Randall T. Exercise device
US5236406A (en) * 1991-02-20 1993-08-17 Fitness Warehouse, Inc. Constant tension exercise device
US5401227A (en) * 1991-02-20 1995-03-28 Fitness Warehouse, Inc. Constant tension exercise device
US5417633A (en) * 1991-02-20 1995-05-23 Pacific Fitness Corporation Multiple station exercise apparatus
US5087031A (en) * 1991-04-08 1992-02-11 Hoff Ross W Arm exerciser
USRE35470E (en) * 1991-06-25 1997-03-04 Hammer Strength Corporation Incline press exercise machine
US5181896A (en) * 1991-06-25 1993-01-26 The Hammer Corporation Incline press exercise machine
US5120289A (en) * 1991-09-17 1992-06-09 James Yu Convertible gymnastic apparatus for doing push-lift movement or chest building movement
US5667463A (en) * 1992-07-07 1997-09-16 Jones; Arthur A. Exercise machines and methods
US5484365A (en) * 1992-07-07 1996-01-16 Medx Corporation Leg press exercise machine
US5342270A (en) * 1992-09-15 1994-08-30 Jones Arthur A Exercise machine for upper torso
US5304107A (en) * 1992-09-15 1994-04-19 Jones Arthur A Exercise machine
US5785635A (en) * 1993-03-05 1998-07-28 Stamina Products, Inc. Multiple function exercise apparatus
USRE37648E1 (en) * 1993-03-19 2002-04-09 Kent Fulks Compact weight lifting machine
US5447480A (en) * 1993-03-19 1995-09-05 Fulks; Kent Weight lifting machine
US5549530A (en) * 1993-03-19 1996-08-27 Kent Fulks Compact weight lifting machine
US5290214A (en) * 1993-04-30 1994-03-01 Chen Tsung Yu Exerciser
US5419751A (en) * 1993-10-28 1995-05-30 Stamina Products, Inc. Multi-function exercise apparatus
US5352171A (en) * 1994-01-31 1994-10-04 Kuo-Chung Shieh Exercise machine making use of body weight of exerciser as load weight thereof
US5554085A (en) * 1994-02-03 1996-09-10 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Weight-training machine
US5527245A (en) * 1994-02-03 1996-06-18 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Aerobic and anaerobic exercise machine
US5733229A (en) * 1995-02-01 1998-03-31 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Exercise apparatus using body weight resistance
US5788614A (en) * 1995-03-01 1998-08-04 Simonson; Roy Plate-loaded chest press exercise machine and method of exercise
US5643152A (en) * 1995-03-01 1997-07-01 Cybex International, Inc. Chest press exercise machine and method of exercising
US5620402A (en) * 1995-03-01 1997-04-15 Cybex International, Inc. Rear deltoid and rowing exercise machine and method of exercising
US5597375A (en) * 1995-03-01 1997-01-28 Simonson; Roy Lat pulldown exercise machine and method of exercise
US5580341A (en) * 1995-03-01 1996-12-03 Lumex, Inc. Shoulder press exercise machine and method of exercising
US5667464A (en) * 1995-03-01 1997-09-16 Simonson; Roy Plate-loaded shoulder press exercise machine and method of exercise
US5807219A (en) * 1995-12-28 1998-09-15 Webber; Randall T. Exercise apparatus adaptable for handicapped and non-handicapped users
US5980434A (en) * 1995-12-28 1999-11-09 Webber; Randall T. Exercise apparatus with adjustable roller pads
US5769757A (en) * 1996-06-21 1998-06-23 Fulks; Kent Method and apparatus for exercise with forced pronation or supination
US10279212B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2019-05-07 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Strength training apparatus with flywheel and related methods
US10188890B2 (en) 2013-12-26 2019-01-29 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Magnetic resistance mechanism in a cable machine
US10433612B2 (en) 2014-03-10 2019-10-08 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Pressure sensor to quantify work
US10426989B2 (en) 2014-06-09 2019-10-01 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Cable system incorporated into a treadmill
DE102016100434B4 (en) 2015-01-15 2019-01-03 Harald Huber fitness device
US10258828B2 (en) 2015-01-16 2019-04-16 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Controls for an exercise device
US10449416B2 (en) 2015-08-26 2019-10-22 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Strength exercise mechanisms
US10953305B2 (en) 2015-08-26 2021-03-23 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Strength exercise mechanisms
US10940360B2 (en) 2015-08-26 2021-03-09 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Strength exercise mechanisms
US10293211B2 (en) 2016-03-18 2019-05-21 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Coordinated weight selection
US10561894B2 (en) 2016-03-18 2020-02-18 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Treadmill with removable supports
US10441840B2 (en) 2016-03-18 2019-10-15 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Collapsible strength exercise machine
US10493349B2 (en) 2016-03-18 2019-12-03 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Display on exercise device
US10272317B2 (en) 2016-03-18 2019-04-30 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Lighted pace feature in a treadmill
US10625137B2 (en) 2016-03-18 2020-04-21 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Coordinated displays in an exercise device
US10252109B2 (en) 2016-05-13 2019-04-09 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Weight platform treadmill
US10441844B2 (en) 2016-07-01 2019-10-15 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Cooling systems and methods for exercise equipment
US10471299B2 (en) 2016-07-01 2019-11-12 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Systems and methods for cooling internal exercise equipment components
US10500473B2 (en) 2016-10-10 2019-12-10 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Console positioning
US10376736B2 (en) 2016-10-12 2019-08-13 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Cooling an exercise device during a dive motor runway condition
US10661114B2 (en) 2016-11-01 2020-05-26 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Body weight lift mechanism on treadmill
US10343017B2 (en) 2016-11-01 2019-07-09 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Distance sensor for console positioning
US10543395B2 (en) 2016-12-05 2020-01-28 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Offsetting treadmill deck weight during operation
US11451108B2 (en) 2017-08-16 2022-09-20 Ifit Inc. Systems and methods for axial impact resistance in electric motors
US10729965B2 (en) 2017-12-22 2020-08-04 Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. Audible belt guide in a treadmill
US20200406086A1 (en) * 2018-02-28 2020-12-31 Pablo Gonzalez Perez Machine for sports training

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AU6217790A (en) 1991-03-14
EP0416783A2 (en) 1991-03-13
AU641934B2 (en) 1993-10-07
EP0416783A3 (en) 1991-10-16
CA2023734A1 (en) 1991-03-07

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US4964632A (en) Compact multi-function weight-training exerciser
US5080351A (en) Compact multi-function weight-training exerciser
US4815746A (en) Bench press frame with barbell assist
CA2023972C (en) Multi-station exercise machine with multi-exercise press station
US4809972A (en) Exercise machine with multiple exercise stations
US5683334A (en) Exercise apparatus with multi-exercise press station
US5417633A (en) Multiple station exercise apparatus
US4390179A (en) Multi-station exercising apparatus
US3918710A (en) Rowing lever exercise apparatus
US6302833B1 (en) Multi-function exercise machine
US4880227A (en) Variable exerciser
US7731638B2 (en) Exercise machine with moving user support and multiple part linkage
EP0209563B1 (en) Physical exercisers
US5330405A (en) Exercise machine
US7981011B1 (en) Combination exercise machine
US5807219A (en) Exercise apparatus adaptable for handicapped and non-handicapped users
EP1945320B1 (en) Apparatus for exercising multiple body parts
US20060258517A1 (en) Chair type exercise apparatus
US20020173412A1 (en) Exercise apparatus
NO852609L (en) WALL MOUNTING EXERCISE.
US9682276B2 (en) Lateral deltoid exercise machine with rocking user support
JPS60500320A (en) bodybuilding equipment
US20040235625A1 (en) Abdominal bench with constant gap torso cushion
GB2201606A (en) Weight-lifting exercise devices
EP0239632B1 (en) Multiple exercise device

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION, ALABAMA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST.;ASSIGNOR:ROCKWELL, GARY L.;REEL/FRAME:005119/0564

Effective date: 19890901

AS Assignment

Owner name: LENDER AND DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION

Free format text: RELEASED BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO;REEL/FRAME:005348/0778

Effective date: 19900306

Owner name: DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION, A CORP OF AL

Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:SHAPE ACQUISITION CORP, A CORP OF DE;REEL/FRAME:005365/0429

Effective date: 19900306

Owner name: WESTINGHOUSE CREDIT CORPORATION, A CORP OF DE

Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:SHAPE ACQUISITION CORP., A CORP OF DE;REEL/FRAME:005383/0082

Effective date: 19900306

Owner name: SHAPE ACQUISTION CORPORATION, A CORP OF DE, DELAWA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST.;ASSIGNOR:DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION, A CORP OF AL;REEL/FRAME:005371/0610

Effective date: 19900306

Owner name: LENDER AND DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION

Free format text: RELEASED BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO, THE;REEL/FRAME:005358/0575

Effective date: 19900306

AS Assignment

Owner name: DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION, GEORGIA

Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:DP ACQUISITION, INC.;REEL/FRAME:006773/0118

Effective date: 19930608

Owner name: DP ACQUISITION, INC., GEORGIA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:006773/0110

Effective date: 19930608

Owner name: DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION, ALABAMA

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:WESTINGHOUSE ELECTRIC CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:006650/0518

Effective date: 19930608

FEPP Fee payment procedure

Free format text: PAYOR NUMBER ASSIGNED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: ASPN); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY

AS Assignment

Owner name: ITT COMMERCIAL FINANCE CORPORATION, MISSOURI

Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:006861/0608

Effective date: 19931215

REMI Maintenance fee reminder mailed
FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 4

SULP Surcharge for late payment
AS Assignment

Owner name: DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION, ALABAMA

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNORS:ITT COMMERCIAL FINANCE CORP.;PROVIDENT BANK, THE;REEL/FRAME:007340/0308

Effective date: 19941206

AS Assignment

Owner name: FOOTHILL CAPITAL CORPORATION, AS AGENT, CALIFORNIA

Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNORS:ROADMASTER CORPORATION;DIVERSIFIED PRODUCTS CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:008660/0919

Effective date: 19970620

AS Assignment

Owner name: FOOTHILL CAPITAL CORPORATION, CALIFORNIA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:RDM HOLDINGS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:008967/0686

Effective date: 19971219

Owner name: FOOTHILL CAPITAL CORPORATION, CALIFORNIA

Free format text: RELEASE;ASSIGNOR:RDM HOLDINGS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:008896/0174

Effective date: 19971219

REMI Maintenance fee reminder mailed
AS Assignment

Owner name: FF ACQUISITION CORP., NEW YORK

Free format text: AMENDMENT TO CORRECT RECEIVING PARTY/CONVEYING PARTY;ASSIGNOR:RDM HOLDINGS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:009375/0633

Effective date: 19971219

LAPS Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees
FP Lapsed due to failure to pay maintenance fee

Effective date: 19981023

STCH Information on status: patent discontinuation

Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEES UNDER 37 CFR 1.362